Finger Lakes Distilling expansion dodges the weather

Some wineries and distilleries around the state still are repairing damage from early-fall storms. Some, such as the brand-new Hillrock Estates Distillery in Ancram, Columbia County, had to push back the start of their whiskey-making for a few weeks while power companies repaired power losses in that area and that of nearby western Connecticut.

Meanwhile, things were quite different around Seneca Lake.

“Fortunately for our ongoing construction, we avoided the first storm to hit the Northeast,” said Brian McKenzie, president of Finger Lakes Distilling. “Our new warehouse/production building is moving along very quickly. It is exciting to see and is much needed as we struggle to find space to operate in our existing production area.

“Our construction crew isn’t the only group hard at work,” he added. “Our staff continues to host visitors in the tasting room while bottling current and new products downstairs during their free time.”

Among the new products is FLD’s first batch of McKenzie Pure Pot Still Whiskey, scheduled for release the day after Thanksgiving, November 25. Also, a new batch of Riesling grappa, pear brandy — now at 80 proof, in a new etched bottle — and grape liqueur will be out soon.